Scope and Contents: This collection consists of six photographs and two paper items documenting the Oct. 1, 1971 raising of The World’s Tallest Totem Pole at Kake, Alaska. The pole was carved in 1967 for the Alaska centennial purchase and in attempt to symbolically rectify the burning of Kake totems in 1926. Although it is not the tallest totem in the world (it is the third tallest) the totem still resides in Kake at 137.5 feet tall (41.9 m).
When SHI received these photos and paper items they were encased in a large frame. SHI staff removed the images and paper from the frame for preservation purposes and has placed photos and paper in archival acid-free sleeves. Prior to donation all photos had faded due to extended sunlight exposure, but overall the images are still in fair condition. The photos capture a view of the totem raising and people at the ceremony. The paper items include an explanation of the totem raising and a $1 dollar stock certificate which states that proceeds go toward Alaska Native enhancement.